Police Alert: Purse-Snatching Crew Strikes Women on New York’s Upper East Side

NEW YORK –

Police are searching for members of a robbery crew who’ve been targeting women on the Upper East Side in recent weeks.

At least three women were attacked on Jan. 19 and Jan. 21, police said Tuesday as they released images of several suspects.

The most recent robbery was at 5:40 p.m. on Jan. 21, when the thieves attempted to rob a 71-year-old woman at East 70th Street and Second Avenue. She managed to retain her purse but suffered minor injuries, police said.

The group is also suspected in back-to-back robberies two days prior, on the night of Jan. 19.

The suspects have been linked to three robberies on the Upper East Side.

A 32-year-old woman was walking at East 75th Street and Third Avenue around 8:20 p.m. when the group ripped away her handbag, which contained cash and credit cards, police said. She wasn’t injured.

A short time later, a 38-year-old woman nearly had her handbag snatched by the group at East 78th Street and Third Avenue, but she was able to hold onto the bag. She suffered minor injuries.

Authorities are on high alert following a series of purse-snatching incidents targeting women on New York City’s Upper East Side. The police have reported that a group of thieves has been preying on unsuspecting women, snatching their purses and fleeing the scene quickly. These crimes have left the community concerned and police working diligently to apprehend the suspects before more victims are harmed.

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The string of purse-snatching incidents began in late January 2025, with reports of multiple women being targeted in broad daylight. According to the NYPD, the suspects typically operate in pairs or small groups and approach their victims in crowded or less-frequented areas of the Upper East Side. The thieves act quickly, grabbing purses or bags from women as they walk along the streets, then making a swift getaway, often on foot or in nearby getaway vehicles.

So far, the incidents have occurred on popular streets like Third Avenue, Madison Avenue, and Park Avenue, areas known for their upscale shops, restaurants, and residential buildings. Most victims have described the thieves as being quick and methodical, often striking when the victim is distracted or walking alone.

Residents of the Upper East Side are growing increasingly concerned about the safety of themselves and their families. The neighborhood, known for its wealthy residents and quiet, tree-lined streets, is typically seen as a safe haven from crime in New York City. However, these recent purse snatchings have shaken the community and led many to take extra precautions when out and about.

Local businesses have also expressed concern over the uptick in crime, as it impacts the safety of their customers and employees. Some have increased security measures, such as adding cameras outside their storefronts or employing private security officers to patrol the area during peak hours.

Police Investigation and Suspect Descriptions

The NYPD is working tirelessly to identify and capture the individuals responsible for the string of purse-snatching incidents. So far, investigators have been reviewing security footage from nearby businesses and residences to gather more clues about the suspects’ identities.

According to police reports, the suspects are described as two men, both appearing to be in their 20s or 30s, with one of them often wearing a dark-colored hoodie and the other wearing a baseball cap. They are said to be physically fit and have been observed moving with quick, deliberate motions.

In addition to the descriptions, investigators believe the suspects are using getaway vehicles that are parked in nearby areas, possibly in an effort to avoid the attention of witnesses or surveillance cameras.

How to Stay Safe

With the recent wave of purse snatchings, police are advising the public, especially women, to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Some safety tips to follow include:

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• Keep your purse close: Avoid leaving your purse or bag hanging off your shoulder or in a vulnerable position. Hold it tightly or wear it across your body to make it more difficult for thieves to snatch.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: Be mindful of anyone who seems to be acting suspiciously around you, especially in less crowded areas. Pay attention to who is nearby and avoid walking alone in isolated spots.
• Use busy, well-lit areas: Stick to busy streets or walk with a friend, particularly after dark. Thieves are more likely to target victims who are alone or in poorly lit areas.
• Secure valuables: Avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuable items in your purse. Consider using a wallet or bag with a zipper to make it more difficult for someone to grab your belongings unnoticed.

Additionally, police encourage anyone who may have witnessed any of the purse snatching incidents to come forward. Information such as descriptions of the suspects, the getaway vehicle, or any other relevant details could help authorities make an arrest.

The local community has rallied together in response to the growing concern. Several Upper East Side neighborhood associations have organized meetings and forums with local police officers to discuss the issue and offer additional safety tips. Community leaders are also working with local businesses to increase neighborhood watch efforts and improve communication with law enforcement.

Many residents are also using social media to raise awareness of the crimes, sharing tips and personal experiences in an effort to keep others safe. Several women in the area have also begun to meet in small groups to walk together, ensuring they feel safer in the neighborhood.

While the NYPD continues to investigate the purse-snatching incidents, the department is urging anyone with information to come forward. The department has also increased patrols in the area to prevent further thefts. However, as the investigation continues, community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.

The recent wave of purse snatching on the Upper East Side highlights the unpredictable nature of crime, even in neighborhoods historically considered safe. With continued cooperation between the police and local residents, authorities hope to capture the suspects and restore a sense of safety to the community.

If you believe you have information about these incidents or see suspicious activity, please contact the NYPD immediately. Every tip, no matter how small, could help bring this crime spree to an end.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS.